I have been trying to get custody of my child, but I cannot afford to continue battling in court, and the judge seems to favor mothers. What recourse do I have?
Answer
Custody issues fall under the legal jurisdiction of the states through their family courts. Some courthouses offer family mediation services, which are a low-cost option (as opposed to returning to court with an attorney). Mediation services generally provide an impartial third party whose role is to help negotiate a resolution to a legal issue instead of returning to court. The mediator does not make decisions or recommendations about the outcome. Rather, the mediator assists with communication, understanding, and creative problem-solving. The National Association for Community Mediation provides links to local mediation programs .
If you believe that your state's current legislation is not able to safeguard the rights of parents in custody disputes, you may wish to contact your state legislators, who are responsible for developing and modifying current laws. You may find contact information for your elected officials on the USA.gov website .
The organizations below offer referrals and support resources, as well as information regarding current policy initiatives, in defense of fatherhood and shared parenting:
The National Center for Fathering
Phone - Toll Free: 1-800-593-DADS
Phone: (913) 384-4661
Email: dads@fathers.com
http://www.fathers.com
National Parents Organization
Phone: (617) 542-9300
https://nationalparentsorganization.org/
Additionally, the Child Find of America Parent Help program (1.800-I-AM-LOST or 1.800.716.3468) offers free, confidential, telephone-based services to parents in conflict.
The National Parent Helpline (1.855.4-A-PARENT [1.855.427.2736]) can connect callers to a trained helpline advocate for emotional support, referrals, and other support resources.